Flask and Cask: The Glenmorangie (and the 16 men of Tain) The Glenmorangie (and the 16 men of Tain) The Glenmorangie: Whisky or some type of alcoholic beverage has been distilled in and around the lovely little Scottish town of Tain since the Middle Ages. Glenmorangie (pronounced Glen-More-Angie, Rhyme it with orangey) is the latest and many would argue the best of those efforts. Still it would be fun to hop in the old time machine and go back and try all the various libations available for the last 1200 years or so. But alas while that is not yet possible as all our brilliant young minds are eaten up with texting and yakking on cell phones all day instead of applying themselves to developing a time machine for my drinking pleasure. How terribly selfish of them to deprive me of this glorious drinking dream! Just as well with my luck I would arrive just as the Black Death hit and get burned at the stake as a witch for not speaking with the proper accent or being able to speak middle English or Scots Gaelic at all. Damn!

I had the great pleasure of visiting the Glenmorangie Distillery in June of 2009 along with my wife, two daughters and niece as we toured Scotland and deposited my father-in-law’s ashes in a place of great honor near a battle field in our ancestral home. The young lady that did the tour was Scotland gorgeous and an absolute delight. I mean well hell, a beautiful young lady that knows all about scotch and is articulate and friendly what could be better? It was a lovely tour and while a still is a still is a still, the tasting and sales room was very well done and the folks running the place were very nice to all of us while providing our dram at the end of the tour. We even got to see a tanker full of scotch leave the compound headed for one of the big cities for bottling. Now there is a drinkers dream, a whole tanker of scotch. As Homer Simpson would say, “Scotch….Arrrggghhhhhhhhhaaa.” On the label of a bottle of Glenmorangie one will find reference to the 16 men of Tain.

This refers to an epic battle long ago that 16 men of Tain took part in and at the end of the battle only one man of Tain was left alive to tell the tail. Some believe that the TV and Movie series “Highlander” is based loosely on the story of the 16 men of Tain. Tain is the home to the Ross Clan Museum. We have been there three times since 1996 as my wife’s Scottish heritage is that of Clan Ross. Ross in Gaelic is the word for peninsula so that is probably where the clan name came from way back when. The production of beer started at the Morangie Farm in 1738 and in 1843 William Matheson bought out the place and converted the brewery into a distillery using two second hand gin stills and later renamed the distillery Glenmorangie. So while I have no great love for gin (it reminds me of nothing but evergreen trees doused with alcohol) I must say this was the best idea for the use of gin stills in the history of the Earth.

I promise to give gin a try again in the near future just to be sure that I still don’t care for it, just to be fair. The quality of the water is upper most on the ingredient list for top quality scotch and the Tarlogie Springs supply that good clean water for Glenmorangie. All that hard work and dedication has paid off as Glenmorangie has a full 6% share of the single malt scotch market worldwide and produces around 10 million bottles a year selling around 65% of that in the UK. It is not a smoky scotch and does come in several age groups and there have been some double and triple woods produced. I love the 15 year that spent 5 years in bourbon barrel oak, 5 in sherry oak and the final 5 in Madeira barrels. They don’t make that anymore as the lovely young lady explained to me people in Europe are not drinking Maderia as much so there just aren’t enough empty barrels to go round. Whether you choose the single malt or one of their other fine whiskies you won’t be disappointed in any Glenmorangie product.

If you are in Scotland the tour is worth the time and also visit the Tain museum in the little town anyone there can direct you. Stop by Harry Gow’s for some good pastries they are just a couple of blocks from the museum in the downtown section and there are 2 or 3 banks there you can change your money or use your credit card to get more. Lots of ancient Pictish standing stones are in this area too with one of them actually in the museum. It’s a really nice place with wonderful people and great world class scotch. You won’t be disappointed. The Whisky Warrior Glenmorangie Distilleries, Scotland | By Scotland Channel City finder Glenmorangie Distillery The phrase that comes to mind when one thinks of Glenmorangie is ‘The sixteen men of Tain.’ From the time the distillery was started in 1843, it has been managed and run by sixteen dedicated, hard working men who carry on the responsibility of producing this fine single malt. The tradition has passed down with every generation and even though the quantity of whisky produced is much more than it was in 1843, this whisky is still handcrafted by sixteen men of Tain .

Glenmorangie stands on the shores of Dornoch Firth and was founded by William Matheson. Instead of buying new stills, with typical Scottish frugality, the distillery manager bought second hand gin stills. This set the tradition of using tall stills of hand beaten copper with arching swan necks. Glenmorangie now uses the tallest stills in Scotland at 16 feet and 10 and1/4 inches. William Matheson was followed by one of his sons, John, who took over the distilling duties. The whisky was hugely popular and in 1887 a Limited Company was set up. The partners were the Maitland brothers and Duncan Cameron. The demand boomed and the whisky was soon exported to various countries all over the world. During the First World War the troops of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders were barracked at the distillery in the malt barns every summer. At the end of WWI the distillery passed out of local ownership. Glenmorangie was bought by their biggest customer MacDonald and Muir of Leith. A member of the MacDonald family is still closely associated with the Distillery.

The contingent of sixteen men of Tain once again ran the distillery at full swing at the end of the war. The distillery has always used water from Tarlogie springs though the land belonged to the Laird. It is not possible to control it or prevent development around the springs so in 1980 the distillery bought 650 acres around the springs to safeguard the water quality. In the 1990s Glenmorangie was expanded to increase the number of stills in order to meet the world demand. In 2002 two washbacks or fermentation vessels were added to increase production. Despite this Glenmorangie is managed by its sixteen men of Tain who work round the clock in quiet efficiency. They include the distillery manager and his assistant, mash men, still men and warehouse men. Glenmorangie produces a memorable 10 year old which is stored in used bourbon casks resulting in a balanced yet complex whisky. Glenmorangie Sherry Wood Finish goes through an initial maturation in ex-bourbon casks and is then transferred to sherry casks to get the perfect finish.

The Port Wood Finish whisky matured in American oak casks has a deep rich texture. Other whiskies include the Madeira Finish and Burgundy Wood Finish among others. Tags: Caskers Selection: Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky - Caskers Caskers Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky SOLD OUT Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged up to 40 years, this whisky earned the Best Single Malt Scotch Trophy at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in 2013. This product is currently out of stock Tasting Notes In 1738, a brewery was built upon Morangie Farm in the Highlands region of Scotland. A century later, William Matheson acquired the farm and equipped the Morangie brewery with two stills that he purchased second-hand, and renamed the brewery-converted-distillery Glenmorangie. Since then, Glenmorangie has produced some of the finest single malt whiskies in Scotland. Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the culmination of a "lifetime" of experimentation and innovation, says Dr.

Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie's Master of Whisky Creation. While studying Biochemistry and Cell Biology as a student at Glasgow University over 30 years ago, Lumsden began experimenting with the distillation of different varieties of malted barley that were commonly used to produce beer (the barley used to produce beer is often roasted or caramelized, while the barley used to make whisky traditionally is not). Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a marriage of whisky produced from two unique types of malted barley: Cadboll malted barley and malted chocolate barley (often used to create craft beers). The whisky produced from Cadboll malted barley, which is harvested on the rolling hills that surround Glenmorangie Distillery, contributes a creamy, vanilla flavor to Glenmorangie Signet. The chocolate barley, however, is "the heart of the recipe," says Lumsden. The high roasted chocolate malt "is tumble roasted in the same way coffee beans would be,"and as a result, contributes strong notes mocha, cacao beans and milk chocolate to the whisky.

Once the barley has been fermented, it is distilled twice through Glenmorangie's copper-pot stills by a team of 16 distillers known as the Sixteen Men of Tain. Glenmorangie's stills are equipped with relatively small boiler pots, which increases the exposure of the whisky to the copper, resulting in a more pure flavor. In addition, the stills are nearly seventeen feet tall â the tallest of any distillery in Scotland â and as a result, produce a lighter, more refined whisky. Following distillation, Glenmorangie Signet is aged in a variety of different casks. While a portion of the whisky is matured in Spanish oak casks that were previously used to mature sherry, another portion is matured in new, charred oak casks. "The charred oak surface gives a very spicy, toasty style of whisky," says Lumsden. In addition, there is an "element of our oldest and rarest stocks â Glenmorangie whiskies from 35 years old through to 40 years old," he adds.

Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky has a rich aroma of mocha, milk chocolate and tiramisu. The aroma opens up to viscous, full-bodied notes of coffee, almonds, biscotti, ginger, cinnamon and orange on the palate, and ends with a creamy vanilla finish. The whisky earned the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2009, 2010 and 2011, and earned a score of 95 points from Wine Enthusiast. In addition, it earned the Best Single Malt Scotch (no age statement) Trophy at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in 2013. "Glenmorangie Signet is without doubt the most unusual whisky ever produced in Scotland," says Lumsden. Pick up a unique bottle of whisky today! Size: 750mL Glenmorangie | Whisky Distilled Glenmorangie Tain, Scotland: Highlands Region For some reason, when I read about the employees of Glenmorangie Distillery (pronounced to rhyme with “orangey”), I feel like I’ve been transported to Middle Earth.

I can hear Gandalf’s voice in my ear, telling me about the legendary Sixteen Men Of Tain, who toil away around the clock to produce a preshussss amber gold liquid coveted by people around the globe…. Since the distillery’s inception, in 1843, it has employed sixteen men (from the neighbouring town of Tain) to produce its fine single malt whisky. Note, not the same sixteen men for over 150 years. That would be a bit scary. Whisky is the water of life and all, but such longevity might just be taking things a bit too far. No, the individual men may come and go, but the Sixteen Men of Tain remain steadfastly sixteen. Otherwise, they’d have to have a new legend… the Seventeen Men Of Tain, perhaps? Or, the Sixteen Men Of Tain, plus Hamish? And Calum and Rob? Nope, doesn’t work. Sixteen shalt be the number of men, and the number of the men shall be sixteen. No more, no less.

Thankfully, technology has increased in line with Glenmorangie’s output, thereby allowing sixteen men to actually cope with producing about 10 million bottles of whisky per year. The distillery’s product is currently the best selling single malt in the UK, and also gaining rapidly in popularity with the rest of the world. It may be the “glen of tranquility”, but it’s certainly not still. Quite the hive of activity, it is! The distillery’s main product is its single malt. In fact, the distillery is unique in selling pretty much all its output as single malt, compared to other distilleries, where up to 95% of the whisky is often used for blends. At Glenmorangie, only a small percentage of output goes into the blends Bailie Nicol Jarvie and Highland Queen. The whisky produced here is light, and quite a good introduction to drinking whisky for people new to the spirit. This lightness is to a large extent attributable to the distillery’s unique stills, the tallest in Scotland at 5.14 metres (16 feet 10¼ inches).

The original stills were bought second-hand from a gin distillery when Glenmorangie started production in 1843, and subsequent replacements have been made to exactly match their shape to ensure consistency in the taste of the product. All distilleries design replacement stills with such care and attention, even sometimes to the point of replicating dents! The distillery takes possibly the most care I’ve ever heard of over the casks that it uses to mature its whiskies, starting right from ensuring that the trees grow to specification. Yes, folks, Glenmorangie actually owns a forest. Said forest is situated in the USA, and the barrels produced here are first leased to Heaven Hill Distillery for use in their bourbon production, before being passed on to Glenmorangie itself for use with the whisky. Their focus on the part that the casks play in the flavour of the whisky has led the distillery to experiment with “finishing” their whiskies – in other words, placing the whisky into sherry, port or madeira casks for the final year or two of maturation.

Other distilleries have since taken on this practice, but it is Glenmorangie who pioneered it, and who continue to conduct experiments using a wide range of other casks. Along with the stills and the casks, Glenmorangie’s water is an important ingredient in the production process, as it is for all distilleries. Glenmorangie has perhaps had more trouble than other distilleries, however, when it comes to protecting their water source, Tarlogie Springs. In the 1980s, the land surrounding the spring was almost sold to developers by the local laird who owned it. To save their water source, the distillery bought the 650 acres themselves. Now that’s what I call solving the problem! General Tasting Notes Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery Tasting Notes After reading all about the Glenmorangie distillery, we bet you’re curious to taste their whisky – click here to buy a bottle of Glenmorangie now!

Distillery Contact Information Address: Tain, Ross-shire, IV19 1PZ Tel: +44 (0)1862 89 2477 Fax: +44 (0)1862 89 4371 Tours: Open all year, with restricted hours in winter. Closed over the festive period. Glenmorangie TÃ¹sail Private Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky at Caskers - Caskers Caskers Glenmorangie TÃ¹sail Private Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky SOLD OUT Glenmorangie TÃ¹sail Private Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged in specially selected casks, this whisky is the sixth release in Glenmorangie's private edition collection. This product is currently out of stock Tasting Notes In 1738, a brewery was built upon Morangie Farm in the Highlands region of Scotland. A century later, William Matheson acquired the farm and equipped the Morangie brewery with two stills that he purchased second-hand, and renamed the brewery-converted-distillery Glenmorangie.

Glenmorangie TÃ¹sail Single Malt Whisky is the only sixth expression in Glenmorangieâs Private Edition collection (tÃ¹sail means original in Scottish Gaelic). The whisky is crafted from Maris Otter barley, a type of winter barley that is bred specially to brew whisky and recognized for its ability to impart rich, rustic flavors. Once the barley was selected, it was mashed and fermented with water sourced from the Tarlogie Spring. The water produced from the spring, which spends nearly a century underground being filtered through layers of limestone before it is extracted, is unusually rich in minerals. In the 1980âs, when development in the area threatened the springâs water quality, Glenmorangie purchased 600 acres of land around and including the spring, in order to ensure consistent water quality and adequate supply. After the barley has been fermented, the wash is twice distilled through Glenmorangieâs copper-pot stills by a team of 16 distillers known as the Sixteen Men of Tain.

Glenmorangieâs stills are equipped with relatively small boiler pots, which increases the exposure of the whisky to the copper, resulting in a more pure flavor. In addition, the stills are nearly seventeen feet tall â the tallest of any distillery in Scotland â and as a result, produce a lighter, more refined whisky. Following distillation, Glenmorangie TÃ¹sail was matured in specially selected casks. It has an aroma of buttered biscuits, toffee and earthy minerals that give way to notes of brown sugar, barley, cinnamon, maple syrup and molasses on the palate. The finish lingers, and has hints of roasted nuts and butterscotch. We have only a handful of bottles available, so pick one up today!

Size: 750mL Glenmorangie ‘Beyond the Cask’ Bar | Scotch Whisky Glenmorangie ‘Beyond the Cask’ Bar Glenmorangie ‘Beyond the Cask’ Bar 5pm-11.30pm (not open Sunday 6 March) Location London, UK Popping up at 15 Bateman Street, Soho, from 3rd-12th March (excluding Sunday 6th March), 5pm–11.30pm, the ‘Beyond The Cask’ Bar will allow visitors to taste some unique and exclusive whiskies, as well as some specially crafted cocktails. Guests can enjoy the stylish speakeasy bar, serving a range of wood and cask inspired cocktails such as a Smoke & Mirrors and a Sweet Sixteen (see below), as well as drams from Glenmorangie’s Extra Matured Range and the latest Private Edition expression, Milsean. Those wanting to explore further ‘beyond the cask’ can visit The Vault within the pop-up, to enjoy food and whisky pairings with expressions from Glenmorangie’s Prestige range, 18 Year Old, 25 Year Old and Signet.

Even the exclusive Glenmorangie 1963 and Pride 1978 will be on offer by the dram. The bar will be the only location in the world that guests will be able to enjoy 1963 by the dram. Glenmorangie signature cocktails being served at the Pop-Up include: Smoke & Mirrors: £10 Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban, wood smoked Hojisha tea, blackberry & raspberry shrub finished with a touch of Antica Formula sweet vermouth. ￼￼￼￼ Sweet Sixteen: £10 Glenmorangie Lasanta produced by the 16 men of Tain, hazelnut infused dry vermouth, honey & pear eau de vie, Campari, chamomile bitters aged in a barrel for 16 weeks. Ticket Price Moët Hennessy USA Mastering Wine & Spirits - Glenmorangie Glenmorangie Visit the Glenmorangie website Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the most intriguing and delicious single malt whisky in the world.

Still hand-crafted by the 16 men of Tain in the Highlands of Scotland, Glenmorangie continues time-honored traditions dating back to 1843. The malt whisky stills at Glenmorangie are the tallest in Scotland, ensuring that only the lightest and most complex vapors ascend and are captured for prolonged maturation in the finest oak casks. The whisky gently matures in the unique microclimate of low ceilinged, earthen floored warehouses overlooking the remote waters of the Dornoch Firth. Glenmorangie has pioneered the art of extra maturing Scotch whisky in casks that previously held some of the world's finest wine. After a period of maturation in ex-bourbon casks, the whisky is transferred for a further period of extra maturation. Using casks that previously held sherry, port or sauternes wines retains the essential balance of Glenmorangie, whilst creating multiple layers of aroma, taste and texture. Glenmorangie has won international recognition, awarded "Innovator of the Year" at the Icons of Whisky Awards for both 2008 and 2009.

Glenmorangie's "Sonnalta PX" scored 96.5pts and was awarded "Best New Scotch Brand" in Jim Murray's 2010 Whisky Bible. Glenmorangie Ealanta earned the title of "World Whisky of the Year" in the 2014 edition of the Whisky Bible. For his ground-breaking work in the whisky industry, Malt Advocate Magazine awarded Master Distiller, Dr. Bill Lumsden "Industry Leader of the Year" for the third time. He is the only person ever to have won the award more than once. The best-selling single malt whisky in Scotland for almost 40 years, Glenmorangie is a malt whisky that is sure to delight the discerning palates of both novices and connoisseurs alike. Location Glenmorangie is produced at The Distillery Coy, which is located in the village of Tain (in Ross-Shire, in the Scottish Highlands, in Scotlandï¿½s oldest Royal Burgh). The Name Glenmorangie comes from the Scots Gaelic Gleann mor na sithe which means 'valley of tranquility', a perfect description of the peaceful setting near Tain.

Our Logo: The Signet At the end of the eighth century AD, on a windy Peninsula in the far North East of Scotland, one of the most significant pieces of early European sculpture, the Hilton of Cadboll Stone, was being carefully carved by the people who the Romans called Picts (meaning ï¿½the painted peopleï¿½ because they decorated their bodies with inks and pigments). Centuries later, battered by time and half destroyed, the original stone was relocated to the National Museum in Scotland for safe keeping. The highly skilled carvings on the Cadboll Stone would come to inspire our brand emblem, the Signet and motivating us to commission Barry Grove, a local sculptor, to recreate a stone by hand with a hammer and chisel. Work began on this enormous slab of sandstone in 2000, but it would take Barry over four years of painstaking labour before the sculpture, a testament to the skill of both the ancient Pictish and modern day Scottish people, could be re-installed on its original location, on Glenmorangie Distillery land.

[Link to this Entry] In 1843, a farmer, William Matheson, established the Glenmorangie whisky distillery in northern Scotland's Highlands. Situated a mile to the northwest of the village of Tain, Glenmorangie was one of the first licensed distilleries in the area and Matheson, along with a team of experts known as "the sixteen men of Tain," created what has become the best-selling malt whisky in the UK. The Glenmorangie distillery and brand changed hands a few times after Matheson's death, but was eventually purchased by a local distributor called McDonald & Muir in 1918. The distributor owned the company until it was purchased by LVMH in 2004. [Link to this Entry] Glenmorangie is produced using very lightly peated malt. The wash produced from this malt is distilled using the tallest copper pot stills in Scotland. Seventeen feet tall stills help to create an incredibly delicate and complex whisky. These stills were originally made for distilling gin, but William Matheson saw that they would be perfect for making his unique whisky spirit.

Thanks to these innovations, the resulting spirit, after requisite ageing, is known within malt whisky circles for its ï¿½fragrant, sweet and floweryï¿½ taste profile, as one noted commentator once described Glenmorangie after taking a ï¿½weeï¿½ sip! In addition to these special stills, Glenmorangie uses the smallest spirit cut in the industry in order to retain the finest, most elegant spirit. In this context, a ï¿½cutï¿½ means the amount ï¿½ greater or lesser ï¿½ a master distiller elects to retain from the ï¿½heartï¿½ of an entire distillation run, which is roughly divided into three successive sequences: the ï¿½headsï¿½, being the first part, the ï¿½heartï¿½ in the middle, and the ï¿½tailsï¿½, being at the end. So the ï¿½cutï¿½ referred to above comes from the ï¿½heartï¿½, which is always considered the purest and best portion in this three-stage distillation process.

At most distilleries, the average spirit cut is 19ï¿½20% of the distillate; at Glenmorangie it is 17%. [Link to this Entry] After two distillations, the spirit is aged in casks where it takes on much of its character. Glenmorangie utilizes many types of casks to develop flavors and complexity in its whisky. No other Scotch distiller has done as much to master the art of maturation. The varieties of casks used include: Bourbon casks with an average 195-liter capacity, bourbon hogsheads of 250 liters, Bourbon puncheons of 500 liters, Sherry butts, or long casks with the same capacity as bourbon barrels, port pipes of 500 liters. Tasters at Glenmorangie are confident that their whisky is completely mature after ten years because the desired style is a whisky of a light, fragrant and delicate character. These attributes come from the tall stills and the lightly peated malt. The purest characters of the malt and water come through at an early age, while the character of the cask comes through after extended aging.

This is particularly true of first-fill casks. Many of the Scotches produced at Glenmorangie are bottled after an optimal period of aging in ex-Bourbon casks, or 10-25 years. Others undergo a period of "finishing" in another type of cask. This finishing period can last from 6-24 months. According to the experience of the Master Blender, Scotch matures more quickly in Burgundy casks, so those whiskies are only finished for six months. The wood in Sherry, Port, and Madeira casks has already released the majority of flavoring materials to the wine so these Scotches take on more character from the wine than from the wood. Whiskies are normally aged in these barrels for 24 months. Glenmorangie was the first distillery to introduce bottlings based on this idea of finishing casks. The core of the Glenmorangie range is The Original, a 10-year old malt whisky, aged exclusively in first and second fill ex-Bourbon casks. Some of these casks are made with old growth oak from a Glenmorangie-owned forest in the Ozarks.

These casks are leased to Bourbon distilleries Heaven Hill and Jack Daniels. Glenmorangie was a pioneer in the use of ex-Bourbon casks, and a majority of Scotch producers have followed suit. [Link to this Entry] Prior to bottling, most Glenmorangie whiskies (aside from Ardbeg and Glenmorangie Original) are chill-filtered to prevent the development of a haze during shipment. The process used is called soft chill filtering in which the spirit is chilled to 4ï¿½C (39ï¿½F). Some distilleries prefer greater stability and chill to -4ï¿½ C (25ï¿½F), but the distillers at Glenmorangie believe this strips too much of the character from the spirit. When barley is malted, the compound ethyl laurate is produced. This compound solidifies at low temperatures and will produce a haze or worse, a big blob, in the whisky. The completely harmless ethyl laurate haze will disappear at room temperature, but chill filtering removes ethyl laurate, preventing a haze entirely. Some producers leave the compound in their whiskies because it gives a smooth silkiness to the spirit.

Whiskies of this type are usually labeled as such in order to prevent difficulties with alarmed consumers. Single malts with an alcohol level above 43% needn't undergo this process, which is used at Glenmorangie and Ardbeg for the extra matured ranges and artisanal offerings. [Link to this Entry] The Glenmorangie Company now comprises both Glenmorangie and Ardbeg and the blending and bottling facility known as Broxburn. There are approximately 360,000 casks of whisky aging at Broxburn and another 200,000 aging off site. The casks are stored at a constant temperature of 12 ï¿½ 14ï¿½C year round, without rotation or topping up. Casks are organized with universal bar codes, and they are maintained by an on-site cooper. Scotch from Ardbeg are shipped in cask and emptied (tipped) at Broxburn, while those from Glenmorangie are tipped at the distillery and shipped in tanker. Upon receipt the whisky is broken down with water to 67% abv for cask aging, and the alcohol level is again adjusted at bottling.

In both cases, de-mineralized well water is used. Blending tanks of 25,000 liters are used, and the whisky is pumped in, homogenized, and sent to the bottling line without an extended marrying period. Just prior to bottling, the color of some whiskies is adjusted with caramel made from molasses (as is all spirit caramel). No caramel is added to Ardbeg, and little if any is added to the other whiskies bottled as single malts. Casks are palletized for aging and stacked on end. It is the opinion of the tasters at Glenmorangie that their whisky is completely mature after ten years. This is the case because it is essentially of a light and delicate character. Two reasons account for this: it is produced in the tallest stills in the Highlands, and it is produced from very lightly peated malt. It is also true that the pure characters of the malt and water come through at an earlier age, while the character of the cask comes through with longer, extended aging. This is particularly true of first fill casks.

[Link to this Entry] Long viewed as a critical component in malt whisky production, as the type and profile of this or that natural spring water helps distinguish one malt whisky from another, the water from Glenmorangieï¿½s Tarlogie Springs imbues Glenmorangie single malt whisky with its characteristic fragrance, lightness and elegance. The Tarlogie Springs, Glenmorangie's own water source and most prized asset, is the product of rain that has been forcing its way through layers of limestone and sandstone for a hundred years. These natural minerals give it its 'hard' water qualities and provide Glenmorangie with a raw ingredient unique amongst Highland distilleries. Our ancient ancestors drank here, considering the pure, mineral-rich waters of the Springs to be sacred. We think they're pretty special too! [Link to this Entry] Glenmorangie the Original This bottling is "The Original" expression of our elegant, floral spirit and the real backbone of the Glenmorangie range.

A ten-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, Glenmorangie Original is produced by marrying the delicate spirit that emerges from Scotland's tallest stills, with first and second fill American white oak casks producing a signature style of softness and complexity. This single malt Scotch whisky is non-chill-filtered, a process that maintains its body, texture and sumptuous flavors. (Ardbeg single malt Scotch whisky is similarly non-chill filtered; again in a process which yields terrific body, texture and flavors.) Aroma Sweet and complex. The scent of citrus and ripening peaches is softened by the aroma of vanilla. Taste Soft texture on the palate. At first, vanilla is detected on the tongue before it ripples along the palate bringing a burst of floral and fruit flavors. Finish Vanilla on the finish as well as a clean and soothing aftertaste with hints of orange and peach. Color Pale gold color Dr. Bill Lumsden, head of distilling and whisky creation at Glenmorangie discusses The Original ( view on YouTube ).

Glenmorangie's Extra Matured Range Many of Glenmorangie's special bottlings include single malt Scotch whiskies aged in casks sourced from as far away as France (used formerly to age Sauternes or Burgundy wines), Portugal (from either Port or Madeira casks), Spain (Sherry), and the United States (American Straight Whiskey or Bourbon barrels). As a result, Glenmorangie has one of the largest and most varied ranges of cask-conditioned single malt Scotch whiskies to offer discerning single malt Scotch whisky lovers. In an exclusive line, Glenmorangie, which is an acknowledged leader in wood maturation, offers a unique trio of exclusive bottlings designated as its Extra Matured Range (EMR): Glenmorangie Lasanta Elegant but full bodied this whisky has spent ten years maturing in American white oak ex-bourbon casks before being extra-matured for a further two years in Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez Sherry casks from Jerez in Spain .

Lasanta is Gaelic for warmth and passion, a reminder not just of the Spanish provenance of these Oloroso sherry casks, but also a reflection of this expressions lusciously soft texture and deep, enticingly sweet aroma. Aroma Enticingly sweet aroma of warm spices, milk chocolate and orange peel. Taste Exquisitely rich and nutty, sweet honeycomb and caramel toffee. Finish Long and satisfying finish with spiced orange and chocolate covered hazelnuts. Colour Light russet Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban The darkest and most intense single malt Scotch whisky in the extra-matured range, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban has spent 10 years maturing in American white oak casks, before being transferred into specially selected ruby (Ruban is Gaelic for "Ruby") port pipes (barrels) from the Quintas (or wine estates) of Portugal. Extra maturation in these port pipes develops Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban into a voluptuous spirit with a complex balance of sweet and dry flavors and an intriguing contrast of smooth and crisp, cooling textures.

Aroma Dark mint chocolate, tangerines and Seville oranges mingle with sandalwood and walnut before giving way to a spicy finish of pepper and nutmeg. Taste Mint chocolate and walnuts envelop the palate like velvet, laying the foundations for rose, Turkish delight and sweet Seville oranges. Finish Long lasting silky aftertaste leaving dark chocolate mints and traces of orange. Colour Sunlit rose gold Glenmorangie Nectar D'ï¿½r It is here, in hand selected wine barriques from Sauternes: the most famous and ancient sweet wine growing region of France, that this whisky develops its rich, spicy and dessert-like flavors; the name "Nectar d'Or" in French translates to "Golden Nectar." "A captivating single malt whisky with a tremendous 'gourmand' appeal, The Nectar D'ï¿½r is Glenmorangie's delicious, complex base spirit that, after a minimum of 10 years in ex-bourbon casks, is then extra matured in specially hand selected Sauternes wine barriques." Aroma Lime and orange rind, sultanas and dates give a rich fruity flavor laced with tantalizing spices of coconut and nutmeg.

Taste Ginger, nutmeg and toasted almonds bring a deep, warming taste interwoven with a syrupy lemon meringue and honeycomb middle. Finish Long and lusciously sweet finish with lemon zest, white chocolate, vanilla and traces of ginger and nutmeg. Colour Extremely Rare & Private Edition Bottlings Glenmorangie 18 Years Old The 18 Years Old is a single malt Scotch whisky of serious distinction. Once it has spent fifteen years maturing in American white oak casks approximately 30% is transferred into Spanish Oloroso casks to spend a further three years maturing. Then, when both elements have reached 18 years, we blend them back together to create a whisky with a rich bouquet and full, rounded flavor. Aroma Rich, rounded and sweet with dried fruits and a complex floral fragrance. Taste The taste is balanced between honey, malt and flowery scents. Dates and figs emerge in the background with a hint of wood smoke. Finish The finish is long and enticing with the sweetness of dried fruit and subtle dryness of Oloroso nuttiness.

Colour Honeyed gold Glenmorangie 25 Years Old The rarest and oldest member of the Glenmorangie family, this is a single malt Scotch whisky of notable class and intensity. Full bodied and sumptuous, the Glenmorangie 25 Years Old is the real embodiment of our continued dedication to perfection. Matured in a range of casks including American white oak, Oloroso sherry casks and French Burgundy casks before being blended back together in exact quantities, the Glenmorangie Quarter Century is complex, bursting with deep flavors, and a perfect testimony to our knowledge and experience. Aroma The first impression is of dried fruits - blackberries, cherries, plums and dates interwoven with chocolate and coffee. Taste Big and full-flavored. Deep forest fruits burst on the tongue with mouth-watering blackberries and redcurrants emerging with bramble jelly. Finish Long and gentle, with brambles and warming spices. Colour Old gold Glenmorangie Signet A fusion of unique and rare elements, and clouded in secrecy, Signet is the culmination of a lifetime's experience.

A blend of our oldest single malt Scotch whiskies - distilled over thirty years ago when malting still occurred on site - and spirit matured in a selection of the world's finest casks, this undoubtedly is the richest single malt Scotch whisky in our range. For more information on the story behind the name, the Glenmorangie website ( ) has information about Signet and the Cadboll Stone. Aroma A strong Aruba espresso fused with a treacly plum pudding, rich with sherry, and candied orange peel. Taste A contrast of rich sweetness with an explosive crackle of sizzling spices and bitter mocha. Finish A fresh spring-like breeze of mint with a bright citrus lemony-green quality. Colour Buy Glenmorangie Whisky Online - Abbey Whisky Abbey Whisky Glenmorangie Glenmorangie Founded in 1843, Glenmorangie Distillery is situated is Ross-shire between the towns of Tain and Edderton, in the far north of Scotland on the southern shores of the Dornoch Firth. Glenmorangie is one of the oldest and most traditional distilleries in the Scottish Highlands and claims to have the tallest copper stills in Scotland.

More Info Founded in 1843, Glenmorangie Distillery is situated is Ross-shire between the towns of Tain and Edderton, in the far north of Scotland on the southern shores of the Dornoch Firth. Glenmorangie is one of the oldest and most traditional distilleries in the Scottish Highlands and claims to have the tallest copper stills in Scotland. Their malt is considered by many whisky connoisseurs around the globes being one of the very best Malts produced in Scotland. Dr Bill Lumsden, mastermind behind Glenmorangie whisky joined the company in 1994 as Distillery Manager. During this time Glenmorangie has successfully experimented with a wide range in whisky styles in particular different types of wood finishes, with the core expressions finished in Port, Madeira and Sherry. Now head of blending Dr Bill Lumsden has taken perfection to the next level travelling to the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, USA, to personally hand selects slow growth oak trees to be used in Glenmorangie designer casks. There have always been sixteen men of tain who are all custodians of the secret of Glenmorangie.

The traditional skills and experience that they learn are passed through time, from old hands to new, ensuring that every glass of Glenmorangie poured is as wonderful now as it was then. The company is now owned by fashion and drink giants Louis Vuitton Moet-Hennesy, the company bought Glenmorangie PLC in January 2005 for 300 million. Experiences - Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky Search Unprecedented access to Glenmorangie Distillery at May Open Weekend Glenmorangie’s legendary craftsmen will share the secrets of their famed single malt at the Distillery’s open weekend in May. On Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd May, they will open the Distillery for free, offering visitors unprecedented access to Glenmorangie’s innovative whisky making – and an insight into the Distillery’s pioneering work to protect its environment and heritage.

Throughout the day, Distillery tours led by the Men of Tain and Visitor Centre team will allow guests to view Glenmorangie’s stills – the tallest in Scotland, and visitors on both days will also be offered the chance to fill Glenmorangie’s new spirit into oak casks used to mature the Distillery’s flagship whisky, Glenmorangie Original. Meanwhile, the experts who create Glenmorangie’s expressions will also provide an insight into Glenmorangie’s range of whiskies, in a programme of Glenmorangie ‘Master Classes’. A lucky few will also be able to join an intriguing sonic tasting that provides guests with a complete sensory experience of Glenmorangie Signet, one of the Distillery’s rarest and most iconic expressions. Glenmorangie (Scots Gaelic for the Glen of Tranquillity) is also committed to sustaining and enhancing the fragile beauty of its peaceful setting on the shores of the Dornoch Firth.

The Distillery’s innovative project to improve the Dornoch Firth’s marine ecosystem is a big focus of the weekend, inviting visitors to explore the work underway on the DEEP project - an ambitious plan to restore ancient oyster and shellfish beds in the Firth. Experts from the Distillery’s partners, the Marine Conservation Society and Edinburgh’s Heriot-Watt University will be on hand to explain the project. A touch tank will also give children a hands-on experience of sea life. The Distillery’s commitment to understand more about the ancient people of its homeland will also be showcased in a display by Glenmorangie’s partner, National Museums Scotland. Centre stage is a recreation of an ornate Pictish throne, crafted as part of archaeological research supported by The Glenmorangie Company that is shedding new light on to the early people of Scotland and which underlines the historic importance of the area around Tain and the Distillery as an epicentre of this early civilisation.Distillery Manager Andy MacDonald said: “Glenmorangie is dedicated to sustaining the beautiful environment which has inspired our single malt for over 170 years.

We hope visitors will immerse themselves in our tranquil surroundings and really enjoy the weekend’s many events.” The Distillery is open to all 10:00-16:30 on 21st & 22nd May. Entry is free. Booking is advisable for cask-filling, tasting master classes and tours. Contact tain-shop@glenmorangie.co.uk or 01862 892477. The original expression of our elegant, floral spirit and the real backbone of the Glenmorangie range. About Glenmorangie House Overlooking the unspoilt shores of the Moray Firth and nestled amongst the ruins of an old castle this 17th century house is both luxurious and intimate. With everything you would expect from a 5star hotel, but with the warmth and personality of a country house party, this really is a special place to come and experience the rugged beauty of the highlands.

Take a walk along the beach, play a round of golf, visit our distillery and then head back to the house to enjoy award winning food sourced from our own kitchen garden, a surrounding farm or the sea; a quick 200 yard dash down a tree lined path.Contact Information Room rates include afternoon tea, a pre-dinner dram with canapes, four course dinner and full Scottish breakfast. For further information, to request a brochure or to make a booking please call us on 01862 871671 or email relax@glenmorangie.co.uk The story of Glenmorangie Dornoch, our new limited edition single malt whisky with a sense of place and sense of responsibility. Tasting Masterclass Dr William (Bill) Lumsden In his role as Head of Distilling & Whisky Creation, Dr Lumsden oversees the creation of the entire Glenmorangie range. He is regarded as a pioneer in the malt whisky industry, touring the world in search of the best oak casks in which our whiskies will be given unique characteristics. He is also the only person to have been honoured three times with The Malt Advocate 'Industry Leader of the Year' Award.

The Serves Dr Bill Lumsden would recommend enjoying Glenmorangie in any of the following ways. Neat To try our whisky neat is to experience it in its purest form, where the complexity of the flavours and aromas is at its fullest intensity. With Water A little water will soften the alcohol, causing a change in the texture and bouquet of the whisky, and revealing further layers of aromas and complexity. Over Ice Adding two or three large rocks of ice to your whisky will close down the top notes that were released with water accentuating instead the base flavours from the oak barrel. The Glass Whisky glass The glass in which you serve our whisky will have an effect on the flavour. However we believe that Glenmorangie should be enjoyed in whichever way you think best, and that includes your favourite glass. But, if you were to ask Dr Bill Lumsden for his personal opinion, he would recommend a simple, yet good quality tumbler to really allow the aromas to be released before and after adding water.

Understanding The Label Glenmorangie Our brand name Glenmorangie comes from the Scots Gaelic Gleann mor na sithe which means 'valley of tranquillity', a perfect description of the peaceful setting near Tain. Highland This means that this particular whisky has been made in the highlands, a rugged and mountainous region of Northern Scotland. Single Malt To be referred to as single malt, a whisky must be produced by one distillery alone. Many whiskies are blends of a number of different makers but all our whiskies are distilled and matured solely in Tain. Scotch Whisky To be called Scotch a whisky must be matured in oak casks for at least three years. The Original We refer to this expression of Glenmorangie as 'the Original' because it is the perfect embodiment of our house style: light and elegant, but with incredible layers of complexity of flavour. Signet The Signet emblem is our brand icon, chosen as it represents an integral part of our heritage. Inspired by intricate designs carved into the Cadboll Stone, an ancient standing stone that we believe is, with its highly skilled carvings, the perfect symbol of our brand.

Ross-Shire Ross-shire is a county in the North East of Scotland where our distillery is situated. This unique location on the Dornoch Firth gives mild, maritime conditions ideal for maturing Glenmorangie. 1843 In 1843, William Matheson set up the Glenmorangie Distillery with two towering stills; stills that are still in use today and which helped create the unique style of Glenmorangie. Perfected by the Sixteen Men Of Tain The select group of craftsmen who are entrusted with the secrets of our distillery. Men whose dedication, skill and attention to detail is passed down from generation to generation. Ten Years Old This refers to the amount of time this whisky has been maturing in oak casks. Any longer and Glenmorangie Original, only ever matured in first or second fill casks, would not retain its perfect balance between sweetness and complexity. Understanding the Label Distillery Tour By the tranquil shores of the Dornoch Firth, amidst the golden barley fields of Ross-shire, lies the Glenmorangie Distillery.

Here you will find a warm Highland welcome from the legendary Men of Tain, the skilled craftsmen who ensure that Glenmorangie is made in the same unhurried and uncompromising way it has always been through its long and distinguished history. The Tours We offer a range of tours with unparalleled access to the Distillery and its warehouses. With the help of our expert guides you will experience all stages of the whisky making process from mashing and fermenting to distilling and maturation. Within our Still House (we call it our Highland Cathedral) stand the tallest stills in Scotland. their long copper necks are the same height as a fully grown giraffe!As a result only the lightest and purest vapours make it to the top, giving a smoother, more elegant whisky. on your visit to our traditional earth floored warehouses we will explain why Glenmorangie has for many years led the industry in the pioneering use of only the finest casks in which to mature our whisky.

The Original Tour You will be guided around the distillery, learning about our flagship whisky, Glenmorangie Original, which is matured exclusively in the finest first and second fill white oak-bourbon casks for a minimum of ten years creating a smoother, rounder whisky. Throughout our Original Tour we will share with you the steps we take in the pursuit of perfection and in creating our whisky. And of course no tour would be complete without tasting a dram of this award winning whisky! The Signet Tour Complement your Distillery Tour with a visit to our Signet Room where you can sample Glenmorangie Original and Glenmorangie Signet which is one of our rarest expressions and undoubtedly the richest whisky in our range. A complex vatting of our oldest whisky stocks combined with whiskies matured in the world's most expensive designer casks we bring alive Glenmorangie Signet's rich dark layers of flavour with a very unusual and alluring sonic tasting experience. The Heritage Tour A very special experience which adds a pilgrimage to the Tarlogie Springs, Glenmorangie's own water source and most prized asset to your Distillery Tour. On this tour you will also visit the extraordinary Hilton of Cadboll Stone.

A hand carved recreation of one of Scotland's most revered Pictish treasures that, with its intricate design, has become the inspirational symbol of our brand. You are then invited to join us at Glenmorangie House, our exclusive Highland home, where we will serve you lunch and the opportunity to taste Glenmorangie Original, followed by an expression from our Extra Matured Range, finishing off with the prestigious Glenmorangie 18 Year Old. At the end of this memorable tour you will leave with a special memento of your visit. Tour

Question: Glenmorangie whisky is produced by 16 men known as the 'Sixteen men of .. where'?
Answer: TAIN